Peptides: the tiny molecules that are changing modern medicine

What if healing your knee, boosting your memory, improving your sleep, and rejuvenating your skin all started with the same thing? Not a pill or a new workout but a tiny chain of amino acids called a “peptides”.

On a recent visit to my stem cell doctor, she mentioned a few peptides she thought I should keep in my fridge: BPC-157 for tissue repair, GHK-Cu for skin regeneration, and a GLP-1 analog for metabolic health. Intrigued, I researched, learned, and eventually started injecting BPC-157 into my ailing knee. That nagging meniscus pain I’d lived with for months disappeared in a few days!

Peptides are naturally occurring molecules in our bodies. They are like microscopic messengers that instruct our cells to repair, grow, or calm down. When used strategically, they can stimulate healing, boost immunity, burn fat, rebuild skin and even enhance cognitive function.

Here’s a peek into the most popular peptides and what they do:

• BPC-157 and TB-500 help repair muscles, joints and gut lining.

• GHK-Cu and Epitalon are the beauty biohackers for firmer skin and slower aging.

• CJC-1295 with Ipamorelin revives your body’s growth hormone, helping build muscle and improve sleep.

• GLP-1 or Semaglutide is a new favourite for weight loss and blood sugar balance.

• DSIP promotes deep, restorative sleep.

• Selank and Thymosin Alpha-1 help calm the nervous system and sharpen the immune one.

Most peptides are injected under the skin in tiny doses and stored in the fridge once mixed with sterile water. While many are still considered experimental, their effects can be remarkable and often feel like turning back the biological clock.

The ones recommended by my physician are as follows for a 71-year-old woman looking to support healthy aging, build or preserve muscle, rejuvenate skin, and strengthen immunity, a well-chosen peptide regimen can offer gentle yet powerful support. Here’s a guided breakdown based on current research and clinical use:

1. CJC-1295 with Ipamorelin
This peptide combo supports natural growth hormone release, which declines with age. It helps improve muscle tone, boost energy, enhance sleep quality, and subtly reduce fat. It’s considered one of the safest and most effective anti-aging protocols for mature adults when dosed correctly.

2. BPC-157
Often called the “body protective compound,” BPC-157 supports healing at the gut, joint, and muscle level. It’s particularly useful if you’re active or dealing with old injuries. It also helps reduce inflammation, which is key in aging well.

3. Thymosin Alpha-1
This peptide boosts immune function, especially important with age when immune surveillance declines. It’s been studied for use in viral prevention, cancer immunity, and autoimmune support.

4. GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
Used topically or systemically, this beautiful blue peptide is a skin rejuvenator. It helps with collagen production, skin elasticity, hair growth, and wound healing. It also has anti-inflammatory and DNA-repair properties, making it a true anti-aging ally.

5. Epitalon
This peptide has shown the ability to lengthen telomeres—those protective caps on chromosomes that shorten as we age. It has been associated with better sleep, improved hormonal balance, and even increased lifespan in some animal studies.

6. MOTS-c
A mitochondrial peptide that helps improve metabolic function, energy levels, and insulin sensitivity. It's especially promising in post-menopausal women and may help support healthy body composition and stamina.

7. AOD-9604
A fragment of human growth hormone, this one aids in fat metabolism. It’s not a weight-loss drug per se, but can help in redistributing fat and improving lean mass when combined with exercise.

8. Selank or Semax
These are nootropic peptides used for anxiety, cognitive clarity, and neurological protection. They’re helpful if you’re looking to preserve sharpness and mood as you age.

9. DSIP (Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide)
Quality sleep becomes harder with age, but it’s essential for repair and hormone balance. DSIP helps support restorative sleep without causing dependence.

10. TB-500
Used for systemic healing, muscle regeneration, and inflammation reduction. Excellent when recovering from injury or surgery, or to keep connective tissue healthy.

Of course, peptides are not magic, and they’re not for everyone. But when used wisely, they represent one of the most exciting frontiers in medicine today. As with any supplement or treatment, speak to your doctor to find the best approach for your needs.

written by Marjolein Brugman

Marjolein Brugman is the founder of lighterliving and Aeropilates. “lighterliving is a movement and lifestyle choice we can all make. Let’s make it simple – make one decision a day to be better and watch the small steps lead to big changes. Eat smart, stay active, and you’ll live to feel a lighter life."